Back to all

Let?s Shift Gears (Transmission Fluid Replacement)

March 19, 2025

If you have a vehicle with an automatic transmission, you probably never think about gear shifting.  When motor vehicles were invented, all of them had to be shifted manually.  But that wonderful self-shifting transmission, referred to these days as simply an “automatic,” changed everything.

Automatic transmissions have a lot of moving parts, and they are bathed in a fluid that keeps them lubricated and cool. That fluid also is vital to the whole gear shifting process. 

As you might imagine, the longer that fluid does its job, the more chance it has to pick up some contaminants.  Sometimes a leak will spring up in an automatic transmission.  Dirty transmission fluid or not enough of it will both create problems. It may cause your Check Engine light to come on, or your transmission may run rough and make strange noises.

The best strategy is not to let it get to this point.  That means you should have your transmission fluid replaced at regular intervals. Your vehicle’s manufacturer recommends how often you should have your transmission fluid changed. You should also have the fluid checked at regular intervals to detect if any problems crop up before that recommended interval. They’ll check not only the level but also inspect its condition.

Keep in mind that most automatic transmission problems are caused by overheating. You can reduce your chances of transmission failure by making sure your transmission—and its fluid—is regularly inspected and the fluid is replaced when it needs to be.

ServicePro Quick Lube
3165 I 75 Business Spur
Sault Sainte Marie, MI 49783
9066353018

More articles from Service Pro Quick Lube

A Hot Mess (AC System-Compresser)

June 14, 2026

Air conditioning used to be a real luxury in a vehicle, but now it's standard in most. Your vehicle's air conditioning system is built to last a pretty long time, but like anything mechanical, sometimes it fails. It helps to know a little about how the A/C works. There's a compressor that pres... More

Automotive Tips from ServicePro Quick Lube: Brake Noise

June 7, 2026

Your brake pads are the important parts that rub against the rotor (or disc) to slow and stop your car when driving in Sault Sainte Marie. They eventually wear down.When your pads are worn too much, they wont stop your vehicle as well. When the friction material is worn away, metal parts of the p... More

If the Shoe Fits (Brake Shoe Replacement [Rear])

May 31, 2026

When it comes to brakes on your vehicle, we all know how important it is to keep them working well because they are vital safety equipment. After all, if you cant slow down and stop, you cant drive safely. While many vehicles use what are called disc brakes, theres another type of brakes that ... More